Living in central Florida there are lots of things to do outdoors. With the hundreds of lakes, endless trails, and beautiful weather, it's clear that an entire week could be spent camping in the wilderness here as long as the proper provisions are brought along. Central Florida is home to more than a handful of giant stores specializing in nothing but camping, fishing, hunting, and sports gear alike.



When you're planning a camping trip it's important to take note of the weather. It's obviously more conducive to try and plan your trip during a week when favorable weather is expected. If you're planning a camping trip in the south during the summer, it's normal to expect some afternoon showers or thunderstorms, so you should pack with this in mind. Depending on the season, you'll need to make sure you pack the right clothing, and an appropriate sleeping bag and blankets.

Non-perishable foods are a must and fishing rods and tackle if you're planning to catch some of our meals. It wouldn't hurt to have a good sized cooler on hand with clean ice, not necessarily just for drinks but for an unexpected spill that could cause a bruise or swelling. Another must is a well equipped but compact first aid kit with band aids, anti-bacterial cream, and alcohol wipes for any unfortunate incidents.

If you live in an area without a retail chain that specializes in camping gear, that is no problem. Most cities have department stores that would have a section devoted to this. There you'll be able to find what you need.

If you've never gone camping, you'll definitely need a few staples. A sleeping bag, cooler, lantern or light source, radio, batteries, lighter fluid, and depending on the comfort level, you need you might opt for an inflatable mattress. A tent is also a necessity, it keeps you out of the elements and away from most of the nuisance bugs. If you're bringing younger children or a spouse, you should look into getting a tent that will house more than one.

A few other things to consider are some bug spray, sunscreen, hats, and some good portable folding chairs.

No matter the occasion, being in the outdoors is always a positive and fun experience. You can learn a lot about yourself and your family by living without the things many of us takes for granted on a daily basis. Make sure that you are prepared, if it helps make a check list of things from each friend or family member who'll be along for the adventure to make sure you'll not be without any necessary equipment.